Alabama Crimson Tide @ Memphis Tigers | Week 5 Game Preview

When: Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at 9:00 pm E.T.

Where: FedEx Forum, Memphis, TN.

How: ESPN +.

Spread: Alabama -3.5.

Total: 154.5.

Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook

The 8-1 Alabama Crimson Tide head to Memphis to take on the 5-4 Memphis Tigers.

Alabama Spotlight

The Tide have beat back to back ranked opponents and hope to continue rolling against a struggling Memphis team.  Offensively, the tide are led by backcourt duo Jahvon Quinerly and Jaden Shackelford and are ranked 7th in points per game with  86.  Alabama ranks 23rd in field goal attempts making 48% ranking 41st and 27th in 3 point attempts.  On defense, the Tide are battle tested with wins over Houston and Gonzaga and will be able to hold their own on the boards where they rank 10th in total rebounds with 39.78 per game.

Memphis Spotlight

After winning their first five games to open the season, Memphis has lost 4 straight and are searching for answers.  Defensively the tigers have size and are 2nd in the nation in blocked shots with 7.67 per game.  On offense, Memphis is led by lottery pick Jalen Duren and average 76.1 points per game ranking 97th.  

Final Say

Memphis is a talented team and has the best player on the court in Jalen Duren, but individuals do not make a team and it's clear the Tigers are experiencing chemistry issues and now face a red hot Alabama squad.  Memphis plays the 13th fastest tempo in the country which plays into the Tides strengths as they thrive on high tempo and in transition.  The Tigers turn the ball over a staggering 25% of their possessions.  Look for Alabama to force turnovers and score in transition while Quinerly and Shackelford break down defenders and get to the rim often possibly getting Memphis into foul trouble.  Lay the points and take Alabama in this high scoring track meet.

Pick: Alabama Crimson Tide -3.5

Pick: Over 154.5